Subterranean Termites

What do subterranean termites look like?

Subterranean termites live and work together in very large underground colonies with the members being divided into different castes. Their appearance will vary depending on whether they are a worker, soldier, or reproductive member.

Workers make up the bulk of the colony. They have a soft, creamy-white body, no wings, are blind, and grow to be about 1/4 of an inch in length. The soldiers are a bit larger than the workers and have an elongated yellow head, short legs, and large, strong jaws that they use to protect the colony. The reproductive members are the largest members of the colony. They have wings, are dark-brown to black, and are about 1/4 to 1/2 an inch in length.

Subterranean termites live underground and attack the inside of wood, so it is very rare for a termite to be seen crawling around out in the open.

Where are subterranean termites found?

Subterranean termites typically live outside in underground nests. The workers leave their nests to forage for food, and while foraging, they sometimes find a crack in the foundation or exterior wall of an Iowa or Illinois home or other building and enter. Once inside, they may attack the structural wood, being especially drawn to wood that has been previously damaged by water. The workers will tunnel through the structural wood and gather food for the colony. Along with foraging for food inside, they may create a satellite nest and eventually start to attack structurally sound wood as well.

What do these termites eat?

This type of termite eats the cellulose contained in wood and wood byproducts. Inside structures, they prefer rotting or damaged wood but will move onto sound wood. Outside, they break down decaying organic matter which releases nutrients back into the soil.

Regular termite inspections performed by termite control experts are very important to win the battle against subterranean termites. It can take weeks, months, or years for homeowners to realize that their property has been invaded by these destructive pests. The damages that termites cause can be extensive and costly to repair. In fact, termites cause over 5 billion dollars in damages to properties all across the U.S. each year!

DIY subterranean termite prevention and control tips

Protecting your home from termites is very important. The following tips can help to deter these damaging pests from entering your home. Termites are attracted to moisture, so it’s helpful to keep gutters in proper working order. Clear away debris that would cause clogs and be sure to direct water away from the foundation. We recommend reducing or eliminating any soil to wood contact on your property, sealing cracks in the foundation, and picking up any organic debris around the yard. It is also very important to remove any wood that has been damaged by water, and repair leaking pipes and appliances. You should also try to eliminate moisture inside the home.

Professional subterranean termite control

At Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators, we offer the Quad Cities termite control services that don't just kill the termites foraging inside your home but the entire colony. Our termite treatment options include Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System and Termidor. Discuss your concerns and how our team of pest control technicians can help you get rid of destructive termites by contacting us today!

Helpful Termite Articles

Why Termites Are A Year-Round Problem In Iowa And Illinois

Peoria Property Owners' Complete Termite Control Guide

Signs You Could Be Dealing With A Severe Termite Infestation In Streator